ANXIOUS pet owners are being urged to start preparing for firework displays at the end of the month.

With many public firework displays set to be cancelled this year due to Covid-19, and the likelihood that more people will host private displays in their back gardens, Dogs Trust is issuing top tips to owners to help their dogs cope with these potentially distressing events.

Dogs Trust is urging all pet owners to take preventative measures to prepare their dogs for fireworks and has advice and support to dog owners to help keep their dog as stress-free as possible.

The charity is also urging people without pet or nervous animals to be considerate of their neighbours

If you are hosting a private fireworks display on New Years Eve, the charity is asking to let your neighbours know in advance and limit the display to 30 minutes or less.

Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust said: “For many dogs and their owners, firework season is always one they dread. But this year, dog owners are faced with the added worry that more fireworks will be set off in the local neighbourhood due to large scale gatherings being cancelled.

“Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them. Fireworks also tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination can be distressing and have a lasting impact on dogs.

“There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful for their dogs. Simple steps such as providing safe spaces for them to hide or settling them before the fireworks start can make a big difference.

“We would also urge anyone thinking of putting on their own fireworks display to consider the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following our Firework Dog Code.”

Dogs should be walked before dark and fed before the fireworks have begun as they may not take food while the fireworks are going off.

Make sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks as fear may make your pet try to escape.

Try to settle your pet before the fireworks start – if your pet is in familiar safe surroundings it will help them cope with the noise.

Provide a safe hiding place for them. Make sure your pet has somewhere safe in their favourite room, perhaps under a table.

Close curtains, turn lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to drown out firework noises and flashing lights.